NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,197 reports113,000 miles · May 3, 2018
Steering
MY ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING(EPS) HAS GONE OUT 3 TIMES. THE FIRST TIME THE DEALERSHIP SUPPOSEDLY FIXED IT ACCORDING TO THE RECALL THAT WAS OUT. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED IN ANY WAY BY FORD OR THE FIRD DEALERSHIP THAT MY SUV EVEN HAD A RECALL. THE EPS HAS GONE OUT 2 MORE TIMES SINCE THE "FIX" AND THE DEALERSHIP CLAIMS THERE ISNT A PRO…
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MY ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING(EPS) HAS GONE OUT 3 TIMES. THE FIRST TIME THE DEALERSHIP SUPPOSEDLY FIXED IT ACCORDING TO THE RECALL THAT WAS OUT. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED IN ANY WAY BY FORD OR THE FIRD DEALERSHIP THAT MY SUV EVEN HAD A RECALL. THE EPS HAS GONE OUT 2 MORE TIMES SINCE THE "FIX" AND THE DEALERSHIP CLAIMS THERE ISNT A PROBLEM OR THAT TIRE PRESSURE IS LOW AND SHUTS OFF THE SYSTEM. EVERY TIME IT HAS GONE OUT IT WAS WHILE DRIVING DURING A ROAD TRIP. IT SEEMS AS IF YOU DRIVE AN HOUR OR MORE THE EPS SYSTEM SHUTS OFF DOESN'T MATTER IF ITS CITY DRIVING IR HIGHWAY.
NHTSA ODI #11091596
58,000 miles · May 2, 2018
Electrical System
WHEN DRIVING A WARM VEHICLE (MEANING IT WAS DRIVEN AND THEN PARKED FOR 1-5 HOURS) THEN DRIVING IT A SECOND TIME WITHIN THIS TIME FRAME, THE VEHICLE WILL DIE AFTER DRIVING 15-25 MINUTES. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, THE RADIO CONTINUES TO WORK, THE ENGINE SHUTS OFF, THE INTERIOR LIGHTS COME ON AND THE LIGHTS AROUND THE SPEEDOMETER COME ON.…
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WHEN DRIVING A WARM VEHICLE (MEANING IT WAS DRIVEN AND THEN PARKED FOR 1-5 HOURS) THEN DRIVING IT A SECOND TIME WITHIN THIS TIME FRAME, THE VEHICLE WILL DIE AFTER DRIVING 15-25 MINUTES. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, THE RADIO CONTINUES TO WORK, THE ENGINE SHUTS OFF, THE INTERIOR LIGHTS COME ON AND THE LIGHTS AROUND THE SPEEDOMETER COME ON. THE REST OF THE INSTRUMENTAL PANEL IS DEAD. THE REMOTE WILL LOCK AND UNLOCK THE DOORS. THE CAR WILL REMAIN IN THIS STATE FOR ANYWHERE FROM 10 SECONDS TO 4 OR 5 MINUTES. THIS HAS HAPPENED 6 OR SO TIMES IN THE MONTH THAT I HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE. IT HAS HAPPENED PULLING UP TO A STOP SIGN AND ALSO GOING 75 MPH ON THE INTERSTATE (WHICH IS VERY SCARY). IT HAS ALWAYS HAPPENED IN THIS 15-25 MIN TIMEFRAME. I HAVE NEVER HAD IT HAPPEN IN LESS TIME THAN THIS NOR HAVE I HAD IT HAPPEN AFTER THE VEHICLE HAS RUN CLEANLY FOR 25-30 MIN. I HAVE DRIVEN THE VEHICLE TO AKRON, OH AND BACK. IT HAPPENED TWICE ON THAT TRIP. ONE TIME AFTER WE HAD DRIVEN FOR ~3 HOURS, STOPPED TO EAT FOR AN HOUR AND THEN GOT BACK ON THE ROAD. IT DIED ABOUT 15-20 MIN AFTER WE WERE ON THE ROAD. IT STAYED IN THE "DEAD" STATE FOR ABOUT 2 MIN, THEN STARTED BACK UP AND I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE ANOTHER 3 HOURS WITH NO ISSUE. IT HAPPENED A SECOND TIME WHEN WE WERE GETTING READY TO TRAVEL HOME. WE DROVE ABOUT 3 MILES TO A RESTAURANT, ATE FOR ABOUT AN HOUR AGAIN. THEN WHEN WE GOT ON THE ROAD TO TRAVEL BACK IT DIED ABOUT 15-20 MIN AFTER WE GOT ON THE ROAD. THIS TIME IT WAS ONLY OUT FOR ABOUT 15 SECONDS BECAUSE IT CAME BACK ON AND JUMP STARTED BEFORE I COULD EVEN GET IT OFF THE ROAD. THIS IS THE ONLY TIME THAT HAS HAPPENED.
NHTSA ODI #11091313
94,500 miles · Apr 29, 2018
Unknown Or Other
MY WIFE AND I BOUGHT OUR EXPLORER LESS THAN A WEEK AGO AND WE SMELL A REALLY BAD ROTTEN EGG SMELL, SULFUR , CARBON MONOXIDE SMELL IN THE VEHICLE BADLY. WE SMELL IT WHEN PARKED, IDLING AT A STOP, ACCELERATING AND CRUISING DOWN THE ROAD, SO BASICALLY IN ALL ASPECTS OF DRIVING WE SMELL IT. THIS IS VERY UNHEALTHY FOR ALL OF US TO BE…
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MY WIFE AND I BOUGHT OUR EXPLORER LESS THAN A WEEK AGO AND WE SMELL A REALLY BAD ROTTEN EGG SMELL, SULFUR , CARBON MONOXIDE SMELL IN THE VEHICLE BADLY. WE SMELL IT WHEN PARKED, IDLING AT A STOP, ACCELERATING AND CRUISING DOWN THE ROAD, SO BASICALLY IN ALL ASPECTS OF DRIVING WE SMELL IT. THIS IS VERY UNHEALTHY FOR ALL OF US TO BE BREATHING THIS IN ECSPECIALLY OPERATING A MOVING VEHICLE AT THE RATE OF SPEEDS UPWARDS TO 70MPH AND HAVING SOMETHING HAPPEN TO US WHILE DRIVING. I'VE SEEN NEWS ARTICLES OF POLICE EVEN CRASHING AND CIVILIANS BECAUSE THEY BLACK OUT OR PASS OUT BECAUSE OF THE STRONG SMELL. ITS'S SO BAD IT'S BEEN GIVING MY WIFE AND I HEADACHES. WE HAVE A 1 YEAR OLD SON THAT RIDES WITH US AND I CAN'T IMAGINE THAT'S GOOD FOR HIM TO BE BREATHING IN. WE HAVE TEACHES OUR DESTINATIONS WITH VERY BAD HEADACHES. WE HAVE RESEARCHED AFTER WE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND IT'S A BIG PROBLEM WITH ALL EXPLORERS 2011-2015. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE AND I WILL NOT BE DRIVING THIS CAR UNTIL IT'S FIXED BECAUSE I'M NOT RISKING MY LIFE AND CERTAINLY WON'T BE LETTING MY SON BE EXPOSED TO IT. FORD NEEDS TO RECALL AND FIX THIS ISSUE. WE BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE BECAUSE IT WAS A TOP RATED USED SUV TO BUY FOR OUR GROWING FAMILY. PLEASE CONTACT ME ABOUT THIS ISSUE BECAUSE THIS NEEDS TO BE TAKEN CARE OF ASAP.
NHTSA ODI #11090890
Mileage unknown · Mar 9, 2018
Engine
2011 FORD EXPLORER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ENGINE FAILURE. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE ENGINE OVER HEATED AND FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE WATER PUMP FAILED. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIRS. *JS
NHTSA ODI #11074806
83,000 miles · Mar 7, 2018
Steering
POWER STEERING FAILS WITH NO WARNING DEALER STATES NO CODES STORED SO CANNOT VERIFY FAILURE AND THEREFOR WILL NOT REPAIR SUSPECT FORD SOFTWARE IS NOT RECORDING CODES TO CAPTURE FAILURE TO AVOID HAVING TO REPAIR FAILING POWER STEERING SYSTEM
NHTSA ODI #11076786
62,000 miles · Feb 28, 2018
Fuel/propulsion System
FUEL SYSTEM LEAKS FROM THE FUEL PUMP ASSEMBLY. SIGNIFICANT GAS LEAK WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND TANK FULL. GAS SMELL AFTER DRIVING VEHICLE. PUMP IS NEAR THE EXHAUST SYSTEM AND I BELIEVE THERE WAS A FIRE HAZARD. VEHICLE HAS ONLY 62K MILES ON IT. IT COST ME $825 TO REPAIR. FORD HAS NO TSB ON IT.
NHTSA ODI #11075471
99,600 miles · Feb 27, 2018
Structure
I WAS TRAVELING WITH MY FAMILY DOWN A BUSY HIGHWAY. THE WINDSHIELD MOULDING ON THE DRIVER SIDE FLEW OFF. I WAS GOING ABOUT 70 MPH WITH FLOW OF TRAFFIC. NO ABNORMAL WIND, JUST WIND FROM SPEED. WAS NO REASON IT SHOULD HAVE FLEW OFF. I HAVE TALKED TO NUMEROUS OTHER EXPLORER OWNERS AND THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE. SOME HAVE EVEN HAD TO B…
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I WAS TRAVELING WITH MY FAMILY DOWN A BUSY HIGHWAY. THE WINDSHIELD MOULDING ON THE DRIVER SIDE FLEW OFF. I WAS GOING ABOUT 70 MPH WITH FLOW OF TRAFFIC. NO ABNORMAL WIND, JUST WIND FROM SPEED. WAS NO REASON IT SHOULD HAVE FLEW OFF. I HAVE TALKED TO NUMEROUS OTHER EXPLORER OWNERS AND THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE. SOME HAVE EVEN HAD TO BE REPLACED MORE THAN ONCE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND I HOPE THERE IS A SOLUTION FOUND TO THIS.
NHTSA ODI #11075250
174,000 miles · Feb 9, 2018
Unknown Or Other
FORD EXPLORER CARBON MONOXIDE. WHEN DRIVING CAR FOR OVER 15 MINS AT A TIME THE CABIN FILLS WITH A ROTTEN EGG SMELL AND CAUSES A SEVERE MIGRAINE. IF YOU DO NOT TURN AC/HEAT OFF AND ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS YOU WILL BECOME LIGHTHEADED AND DIZZY. KIDS COMPLAIN OF BECOMING VERY SLEEPY WHEN IN THE CAR AND THE AIR OR HEAT IS ON. WE HAVE …
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FORD EXPLORER CARBON MONOXIDE. WHEN DRIVING CAR FOR OVER 15 MINS AT A TIME THE CABIN FILLS WITH A ROTTEN EGG SMELL AND CAUSES A SEVERE MIGRAINE. IF YOU DO NOT TURN AC/HEAT OFF AND ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS YOU WILL BECOME LIGHTHEADED AND DIZZY. KIDS COMPLAIN OF BECOMING VERY SLEEPY WHEN IN THE CAR AND THE AIR OR HEAT IS ON. WE HAVE TO CONSISTENTLY DRIVE WITH THE WINDOWS DOWN TO INSURE THAT WE ARE NOT BEING POISONED WITH CO2. I HAVE TAKEN MY EXPLORER IN TWICE NOW AND HAVE BEEN TOLD BOTH TIMES AFTER EXTENSIVE TESTING THAT THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH MY CAR. IT DOES NOT MATTER WHETHER YOU ARE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY, CITY STREET, OR SITTING STILL IF YOU ARE IN THE VEHICLE FOR MORE THAN 15 MINUTES THE CO2 STARTS UP IF THE AIR OR HEAT IS ON.
NHTSA ODI #11071878
Mileage unknown · Jan 31, 2018
Electrical System
WHEN PLACED IN PARK THE VEHICLE WILL NOT LIGHT UP THE PARK INDICATOR LIGHT 95% OF THE TIME. BECAUSE OF THIS THE REMOTE START WILL NOT WORK AND THE CAR CHIME WILL RING CONSISTENTLY. I HAVE BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND TOLD IT IS A SWITCH THAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED THAT WILL COST ME @ 500.00. I SEE THIS COMPLAINT LIST ON THE IN…
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WHEN PLACED IN PARK THE VEHICLE WILL NOT LIGHT UP THE PARK INDICATOR LIGHT 95% OF THE TIME. BECAUSE OF THIS THE REMOTE START WILL NOT WORK AND THE CAR CHIME WILL RING CONSISTENTLY. I HAVE BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND TOLD IT IS A SWITCH THAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED THAT WILL COST ME @ 500.00. I SEE THIS COMPLAINT LIST ON THE INTERNET FOR MANY OF THE EXPLORERS AND OTHER MODELS YET IS HAS NOT BEEN ADDRESSED IN A RECALL. I BELIEVE JEEP HAD A SIMILAR PROBLEM WHERE THE VEHICLE DID NOT ACTUALLY GO INTO PARK AND IT KILLED SEVERAL PEOPLE. WILL THIS BE THE NEXT PROBLEM WITH THESE FORDS THAT SHOW THEY ARE NOT IN PARK? THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AS IT SEEMS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM DESPITE FORD DENYING IT AT THE DEALERSHIP. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ISSUE FOR ME FOR @ 2 MONTHS UNTIL I COULD GET IT IN FOR SERVICE
NHTSA ODI #11066002
Mileage unknown · Jan 31, 2018
Engine And Engine Cooling
2011 FORD EXPLORER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO PERSONALLY HAVING SOLVED EXHAUST SMELL IN VEHICLE CABIN AFTER ALL ATTEMPTS FAILED BY DEALER AND ENGINEERING TSB TO REPAIR PROBLEM. *SMD *JS
NHTSA ODI #10965668
Official recalls
6Jan 19, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years. Owner notification letters were mailed between July 18, 2024 and December 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S02.
Sep 22, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. These vehicles may be equipped with a cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) replacement part that could seize, and result in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealer will inspect for the presence of a CABJ. If a CABJ of any design is found, the dealer will inspect the tightness of the CABJ, and replace the CABJ, knuckle, and/or toe link as necessary, free of charge. Interim notification letters were mailed November 10, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S43.
Jun 10, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, and inspect both rear toe link ball joints, replacing the rear wheel knuckle(s), if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S17.
Mar 24, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the interior door handle return spring may unseat, resulting in interior door handle that does not return to the fully stowed position after actuation.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the interior door handle return spring is unseated, the door may unlatch in the event of a side impact crash, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four of the interior door handles and either repair or replace them, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S11.
May 29, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 17, 2010, through February 28, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear, which can cause a loss of the motor position sensor signal resulting in a shut down of the power steering assist.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist it will require extra steering effort at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) software, free of charge. If a vehicle shows a history of a loss of motor position sensor signal when the vehicle is brought in for the recall remedy, its steering rack assembly will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S06.
Feb 2, 2011
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 EXPLORER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 15, 2010, THROUGH DECEMBER 13, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SECOND ROW 60% SEATS WITH MANUAL RECLINER MECHANISMS THAT MAY HAVE COMPONENTS THAT ARE OUT OF DIMENSIONAL SPECIFICATION. THESE SEATS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BACK MAY NOT PROVIDE THE REQUIRED STRENGTH, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE SEATS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
4PE23001 · Windshield Trim Molding Item Detachment
Opened Jan 27, 2023 · Closed Feb 8, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Structure:body:roof And Pillars
On January 27, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-001 to investigate allegations of A-pillar trim panel detachment on model year (MY) 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles. At the time of opening, the office had received 164 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting this failure. ODI has received 671 VOQs regarding this failure, including 1 alleged crash and 2 alleged injuries. Some consumers have reported that the failure occurred while they were driving at highway speeds, with the detached trim panel entering the path of travel of the vehicle behind them, requiring the driver of the following vehicle to take evasive action. It is noteworthy that motorists who experience this type of road hazard are less likely to accurately identify the subject vehicle the item detached from and report the event to the NHTSA. In its April 17, 2023 response to ODI’s information request, Ford provided 175 consumer complaints (including field reports) and 14,162 warranty claims related to A-pillar trim panel detachment. Ford relayed that the subject vehicles utilize a plastic A-pillar bracket, which is bolted to the vehicle structure during assembly. The A-pillar trim panel is attached to the bracket utilizing 7 plastic clips. Contributory factors which have been identified by Ford as leading to the subject defect include incomplete installation at the assembly plant, inadequate part stack up, damage to fasteners during installation, and failure to follow proper repair procedure during windshield replacements or other services. On January 19, 2024, Ford filed safety recall 24V-031 for MY 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles to address the subject defect. In the Part 573 Safety Recall Report, Ford identified that a detached A-pillar trim panel can create a road hazard for other road users, increasing the risk of a crash. The recall remedy includes an inspection of the existing A-pillar trim panel and, if necessary, the replacement of the component. The remedy A-pillar trim panels will be installed with an additional adhesive for robustness and utilize an inspection procedure to ensure full engagement of all the retention clips during installation. In view of the recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
EA17002 · Exhaust Odor In Passenger Cab
Opened Jul 27, 2017 · Closed Jan 17, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe; Structure:body
During the EA17-002 investigation, the agency reviewed and analyzed reports of exhaust odors in the passenger cabins of Model Year 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorers. This investigation required an approach that incorporated knowledge and expertise from the automotive, medical, environmental health, and occupational safety fields. The agency conducted an in-depth investigation that encompassed the review of over 6,500 consumer complaints, conducting field inspections, and testing the relevant vehicles, both independently and in coordination with Ford and other entities. During the investigation, the evolution of Ford service bulletins intended to reduce the level of exhaust odors and carbon monoxide (CO) entering the occupant compartment was examined and independent tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the final Field Service Actions (FSA) for both consumer and police vehicles were conducted. As part of the investigation, the agency also examined the effects of cracked exhaust mani-cats on the measured CO levels in the vehicles and tested the FSA repairs to ensure they did not adversely impact occupant compartment CO levels due to cracked mani-cats.The investigation identified upfitting issues for Police Interceptor vehicles. Upfitting (sirens, lights, cages, auxiliary power, etc.) is typically performed by governmental fleet operations, independent repair facilities, or local Ford dealers after the sale of the new vehicle. Sealing issues caused by upfitting were responsible for the highest measured carbon monoxide levels in tested vehicles. The police FSA instructs how to inspect the quality of the vehicle upfits and how to properly seal any leaks caused by these upfits, at no cost to the police agency. Similarly, the highest CO levels measured in consumer vehicles were usually traced to sealing issues caused by rear crash damage where the repairs did not ensure sealing integrity. The most recent Ford FSA procedure for both the police (17B25) and consumer vehicles (17N03) includes an HVAC reprogramming operation. Tests by Ford and NHTSA have demonstrated a substantial reduction of CO levels due solely to the HVAC reprogramming. Other FSA repairs also demonstrated measurable contributions to CO level reductions during controlled tests.Throughout the investigation, vehicles accurately measured with higher levels of carbon monoxide were almost always affected by upfitter alterations, damage, or other causes compromising rear passenger cabin seals.NHTSA received thousands of reports alleging odors which triggered a variety of physiological responses, predominately nausea, headaches, and lightheadedness. NHTSA focused the investigation on accurately measuring vehicle CO levels, and accurately measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHB) levels from properly administered blood tests. Using rigorous test methods to produce exhaust gas intrusion in vehicles with a properly performed FSA, occupant compartment CO levels remained below current environmental limits for CO in any environment (EPA ambient air quality standards). Furthermore, even without FSA repairs, no vehicles unaffected by upfitter issues or prior crash damage were identified with CO levels that exceed accepted occupational CO exposure levels. This investigation finds that the 2011-2017 Ford Explorer vehicles when accurately measured produce occupant compartment CO levels which fall below current accepted health standards, and could not identify COHB levels for vehicle drivers or other occupants, which exceeded thresholds for acute physiological effects. Therefore, the agency has not identified a defect that represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.This inve
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe
During the EA17-002 investigation, the agency reviewed and analyzed reports of exhaust odors in the passenger cabins of Model Year 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorers. This investigation required an approach that incorporated knowledge and expertise from the automotive, medical, environmental health, and occupational safety fields. The agency conducted an in-depth investigation that encompassed the review of over 6,500 consumer complaints, conducting field inspections, and testing the relevant vehicles, both independently and in coordination with Ford and other entities. During the investigation, the evolution of Ford service bulletins intended to reduce the level of exhaust odors and carbon monoxide (CO) entering the occupant compartment was examined and independent tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the final Field Service Actions (FSA) for both consumer and police vehicles were conducted. As part of the investigation, the agency also examined the effects of cracked exhaust mani-cats on the measured CO levels in the vehicles and tested the FSA repairs to ensure they did not adversely impact occupant compartment CO levels due to cracked mani-cats.The investigation identified upfitting issues for Police Interceptor vehicles. Upfitting (sirens, lights, cages, auxiliary power, etc.) is typically performed by governmental fleet operations, independent repair facilities, or local Ford dealers after the sale of the new vehicle. Sealing issues caused by upfitting were responsible for the highest measured carbon monoxide levels in tested vehicles. The police FSA instructs how to inspect the quality of the vehicle upfits and how to properly seal any leaks caused by these upfits, at no cost to the police agency. Similarly, the highest CO levels measured in consumer vehicles were usually traced to sealing issues caused by rear crash damage where the repairs did not ensure sealing integrity. The most recent Ford FSA procedure for both the police (17B25) and consumer vehicles (17N03) includes an HVAC reprogramming operation. Tests by Ford and NHTSA have demonstrated a substantial reduction of CO levels due solely to the HVAC reprogramming. Other FSA repairs also demonstrated measurable contributions to CO level reductions during controlled tests.Throughout the investigation, vehicles accurately measured with higher levels of carbon monoxide were almost always affected by upfitter alterations, damage, or other causes compromising rear passenger cabin seals.NHTSA received thousands of reports alleging odors which triggered a variety of physiological responses, predominately nausea, headaches, and lightheadedness. NHTSA focused the investigation on accurately measuring vehicle CO levels, and accurately measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHB) levels from properly administered blood tests. Using rigorous test methods to produce exhaust gas intrusion in vehicles with a properly performed FSA, occupant compartment CO levels remained below current environmental limits for CO in any environment (EPA ambient air quality standards). Furthermore, even without FSA repairs, no vehicles unaffected by upfitter issues or prior crash damage were identified with CO levels that exceed accepted occupational CO exposure levels. This investigation finds that the 2011-2017 Ford Explorer vehicles when accurately measured produce occupant compartment CO levels which fall below current accepted health standards, and could not identify COHB levels for vehicle drivers or other occupants, which exceeded thresholds for acute physiological effects. Therefore, the agency has not identified a defect that represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.This inve
Structure:body
During the EA17-002 investigation, the agency reviewed and analyzed reports of exhaust odors in the passenger cabins of Model Year 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorers. This investigation required an approach that incorporated knowledge and expertise from the automotive, medical, environmental health, and occupational safety fields. The agency conducted an in-depth investigation that encompassed the review of over 6,500 consumer complaints, conducting field inspections, and testing the relevant vehicles, both independently and in coordination with Ford and other entities. During the investigation, the evolution of Ford service bulletins intended to reduce the level of exhaust odors and carbon monoxide (CO) entering the occupant compartment was examined and independent tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the final Field Service Actions (FSA) for both consumer and police vehicles were conducted. As part of the investigation, the agency also examined the effects of cracked exhaust mani-cats on the measured CO levels in the vehicles and tested the FSA repairs to ensure they did not adversely impact occupant compartment CO levels due to cracked mani-cats.The investigation identified upfitting issues for Police Interceptor vehicles. Upfitting (sirens, lights, cages, auxiliary power, etc.) is typically performed by governmental fleet operations, independent repair facilities, or local Ford dealers after the sale of the new vehicle. Sealing issues caused by upfitting were responsible for the highest measured carbon monoxide levels in tested vehicles. The police FSA instructs how to inspect the quality of the vehicle upfits and how to properly seal any leaks caused by these upfits, at no cost to the police agency. Similarly, the highest CO levels measured in consumer vehicles were usually traced to sealing issues caused by rear crash damage where the repairs did not ensure sealing integrity. The most recent Ford FSA procedure for both the police (17B25) and consumer vehicles (17N03) includes an HVAC reprogramming operation. Tests by Ford and NHTSA have demonstrated a substantial reduction of CO levels due solely to the HVAC reprogramming. Other FSA repairs also demonstrated measurable contributions to CO level reductions during controlled tests.Throughout the investigation, vehicles accurately measured with higher levels of carbon monoxide were almost always affected by upfitter alterations, damage, or other causes compromising rear passenger cabin seals.NHTSA received thousands of reports alleging odors which triggered a variety of physiological responses, predominately nausea, headaches, and lightheadedness. NHTSA focused the investigation on accurately measuring vehicle CO levels, and accurately measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHB) levels from properly administered blood tests. Using rigorous test methods to produce exhaust gas intrusion in vehicles with a properly performed FSA, occupant compartment CO levels remained below current environmental limits for CO in any environment (EPA ambient air quality standards). Furthermore, even without FSA repairs, no vehicles unaffected by upfitter issues or prior crash damage were identified with CO levels that exceed accepted occupational CO exposure levels. This investigation finds that the 2011-2017 Ford Explorer vehicles when accurately measured produce occupant compartment CO levels which fall below current accepted health standards, and could not identify COHB levels for vehicle drivers or other occupants, which exceeded thresholds for acute physiological effects. Therefore, the agency has not identified a defect that represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.This inve
PE16008 · Ford Explorer Exhaust Odor
Opened Jul 1, 2016 · Closed Sep 12, 2017
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System; Structure:body
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
Structure:body
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
PE12017 · Electric Power Steering Failure
Opened Jun 19, 2012 · Closed Jun 12, 2014
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering:electric Power Assist System
On May 27, 2014 and amended June 2, 2014, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect that may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist in approximately 179,027 model year (MY) 2011 through 2013 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with electric power assisted steering (EPAS), including 82,328 MY 2011 Explorersthat are the subject of PE12-017.Ford has assigned the recall number 14S06.The NHTSA recall number is 14V-286.Ford's DIR indicates that loss of power steering assist while driving would require higher steering effort at lower vehicle speeds, which may result in an increased risk of a crash.Sudden loss of power steering assist while driving can occur in the subject vehicles if the system loses electrical power or whenever the system detects a fault that requires it to enter fail-safe mode, which removes power from the EPAS motor and defaults to manual steering.Ford's DIR indicates that the majority of steering assist failures in the recalled vehicles have been caused by an intermittent electrical connection in the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) that can lead to a loss of the motor position sensor signal.Ford's remedy instructs dealers to check the PSCM for diagnostic trouble codes (DTC).If upon initial inspection a loss of steering assist DTC is present, dealers will replace the steering gear at no charge to the owner and update the PSCM with revised software.Following detection of a motor position sensor signal fault, the revised software will provide audible and visual warnings to the driver that a power steering system fault has been detected and will maintain steering assist for the remainder of that drive cycle.If no DTC is present, dealers will reprogram the PSCM with the revised software. Analysis of information from all sources identified a total of 969 complaints and 4,059 warranty claims related to loss of power steering assist while driving in the MY 2011 through 2012 Explorer vehicles, resulting in a complaint rate of 5.4 incidents per thousand vehicles and a warranty claim rate of 2.3 percent.ODI identified 15 crashes with evidence indicating loss of power steering assist may have been a factor.All 15 crashes involved low-speed impacts with roadside objects during turning maneuvers, resulting in minor vehicle damage or no damage.In one incident that occurred in a low-speed curve, the driver attempted to brake in response to the sudden increase in steering effort and inadvertently applied the accelerator pedal instead.This caused the vehicle to run off the side of the road and strike a wooden pole at approximately 15 mph.Another incident occurred when the driver was unable to to negotiate a left-turn at an intersection and ran off the road into a shallow ditch, resulting in moderate front-end damage to the vehicle and minor injuries to the driver that did not require medical treatment. This investigation is closed.All ODI complaints associated with this closing resume are listed in the Attachment 1.
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